Beware of pickpockets in the area

Thames Valley Police is issuing a warning to residents to be aware of pick-pockets or purse dippers in the Amersham/Chesham area.

The warning follows 12 reports of theft in Amersham and surrounding areas.

In February a 69-year-old woman was shopping in Tesco, Amersham old town, when she noticed her purse had gone missing. Her bank cards had also been taken.

On another occasion a 79-year-old woman was also in Tesco, Amersham when her purse, cash and debit cards were all taken from her bag.

PC Damian Eatwell, investigating, said: “In all of these incidents the victims were elderly women. We believe they were perceived to be vulnerable targets. We also believe there is a team of offenders out there stealing and using credit/debit cards between them. In most cases, the banks can reimberse the victim, however, they can do very little about the severe stress and anxiety this type of crime causes

“Please be on guard and stay vigilant. If you have elderly relatives, let them know of a few hints and tips on personal safety to help them avoid becoming a victim.”

There are a number of things you can do to help reduce the risk of becoming victim to a pick-pocket:

• Wear shoulder bags with the flap facing you and the strap over both your arm and your head. Wearing the bag across your body like this is better than wearing the bag just over your shoulder.
• If you are carrying money, carry only what you need.
• Hide purses and wallets in an inside pocket or better still, put it in a coat pocket
• Do not write PIN numbers down on paper left in bags or purses.

If you have any information about purse thefts in the Chiltern district, contact PC Eatwell via the Thames Valley Police 24-hour enquiry centre on 0845 8 505 505.